What to do about swollen legs after surgery?
Some tips that may help reduce swelling:
- Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down.
- Exercise your legs.
- Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
- Wear support stockings (sold at most drugstores and medical supply stores).
What causes extreme swelling after surgery?
Swelling is normal after surgery. As the body begins healing itself, thousands of cells are sent to the affected body part. This is part of the first stage of healing called the inflammatory phase. The influx of all of these cells to the area causes more swelling.
When is swelling the worst after surgery?
Pain and swelling: Incision pain and swelling are often worst on day 2 and 3 after surgery. The pain should slowly get better during the next 1 to 2 weeks.
How long does swelling last leg surgery?
Swelling typically lasts for 2 to 3 weeks after surgery, but may persist for as long as 3 to 6 months. Bruising may last for 1 to 2 weeks following surgery.
How long does post surgery swelling last?
How long can swelling last?
After you suffer an injury, swelling usually worsens over the first two to four days. It can then last for as long as three months as the body attempts to heal itself. If the swelling lasts longer than this, your physical therapist or doctor may need to take a closer look to determine the cause of the delayed healing.
Why is my leg more swollen after surgery?
The influx of all of these cells to the area causes more swelling. In the case of lower extremity surgery, more swelling occurs because the leg is dependent, that is, well below the level of the heart. Gravity causes even more fluid to go to the leg. Why is my leg more swollen than it was while I was in the hospital?
What to do if you have surgery on your leg?
Wear compression stockings to reduce swelling in your legs. If you had surgery on your leg or hip, then you may notice swelling throughout 1 or both legs. This is often considered normal, but wearing compression stockings may help to reduce swelling and increase your comfort.
What to do if your legs are swelling?
Certain medicines may also cause your legs to swell. Some of these are: Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down. Exercise your legs. This helps pump fluid from your legs back to your heart. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
What causes swelling in the legs at Mayo Clinic?
By Mayo Clinic Staff. Many factors — varying greatly in seriousness — can cause leg swelling. Leg swelling caused by the retention of fluid in leg tissues is known as peripheral edema. It can be caused by a problem with the circulatory system, the lymphatic system or the kidneys. Leg swelling isn’t always a sign of a heart or circulation problem.
Is it normal to have leg swelling after surgery?
Leg swelling after surgery, especially lower extremity surgery, is common. It can result in questions and concerns from the patient: Is this swelling normal? Swelling is normal after surgery.
Certain medicines may also cause your legs to swell. Some of these are: Put your legs on pillows to raise them above your heart while lying down. Exercise your legs. This helps pump fluid from your legs back to your heart. Follow a low-salt diet, which may reduce fluid buildup and swelling.
What causes swelling in the back of the leg?
Many factors — varying greatly in seriousness — can cause leg swelling. Leg swelling caused by the retention of fluid in leg tissues is known as peripheral edema. It can be caused by a problem with the circulatory system, the lymphatic system or the kidneys. Leg swelling isn’t always a sign of a heart or circulation problem.
When to call the doctor about leg and foot swelling?
You have a history of liver disease and now have swelling in your legs or abdomen. Your swollen foot or leg is red or warm to the touch. You have a fever. You are pregnant and have more than just mild swelling or have a sudden increase in swelling. Also call your provider if self-care measures do not help or swelling gets worse.
